New Law to Deregulate the Film Industry in Thailand

Thailand is ready to change how films get made in the country. A new bill is working its way through parliament that will clear out old rules, cut delays, and make the process easier for both local and international productions. If approved, it would be the biggest shift in the Thai film industry in years and could bring in a new wave of global attention.

Here’s what the law could change, why it matters, and what it means if you plan to film in Thailand.

Why does Thailand want to deregulate its Film Industry?

Right now, filming in Thailand involves a lot of approvals. Foreign production companies must apply for licenses, and the government has the final say on what content is allowed. This creates delays and uncertainty, driving away investors and slowing growth.

Behind the scenes, the situation isn’t much better. Many Thai film crews work long shifts, longer than the usual 8-hour shifts, without contracts or benefits. Most are freelancers, doing full-time work with no job security. Studios cut costs by hiring fewer people and making them take on extra tasks, and safety is often ignored. 

The Thai government recognizes that these issues are slowing the industry down. As global demand for content grows, they see an opportunity to make changes and attract more international productions as well as develop the local industry with foreign expertise.

What is the new Film Law in Thailand?

The new bill aims to update the Film and Video Act of 2008, removing government barriers that many in the industry say slow down production. If the bill passes, you won’t need to go through a long and arduous process to get a license to shoot in Thailand anymore. You’ll only need to tell the Thailand Film Office about your project.

Furthermore, instead of letting the government control what gets shown, the law would hand that job to experts in the private sector. They’ll rate films using global standards, not outdated censorship rules. The focus now is on support, not restriction.

This new law will be a shift from top-down control to cooperation between the state and the industry. By making the production process easier and working more closely with professionals, the government aims to attract more filmmakers from around the world for both improved investments and a higher global profile. 

Who benefits from the new Film Law in Thailand?

If you’re part of a foreign production company, this law works in your favor. You won’t need to deal with a long approval process, so you can work faster and with more certainty.

Thai crews could benefit as well, as more international productions will bring more jobs. With better funding and higher standards, working conditions should finally improve. There’s also talk of stronger labor rules and clearer job roles, something crews have been asking for a long time, and this new law could help pave the way.

The Thai government benefits too. By attracting more international projects, they bring in revenue, boost tourism, and promote the country on screen.

When will the new Thai Film Law take effect?

Right now, the bill is under review by the Council of State. It has already passed public consultations and won support from the cabinet and the National Film and Video Committee. While final details haven’t been released, the passing of this bill is believed to be inevitable by all involved.

The government also hasn’t announced a final date yet, but culture officials say it’s a top priority. With global interest growing and incentives already in place, the law is expected to move forward soon, and the changes could roll out quickly as they require little preparation and infrastructure on the government’s end.

What should foreign filmmakers know before coming to Thailand?

Thailand is opening its doors to international productions, and while the new film law makes shooting easier, you can’t just show up and start filming. Immigration rules still apply, so make sure your paperwork is in order before you arrive. 

If you’re planning to work in the country, you’ll need the right visa. That typically means applying for a Thai business visa and a Thai work permit. This applies to all crew members, no matter the size of the project. Thailand wants to welcome filmmakers, but you still have to follow the rules.

Mistakes with your visa application can lead to delays, denied entry, or even being turned away at the airport. If you need help applying for a business visa, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Siam Legal’s visa consulting team has experience guiding film professionals through the process and can help you get the right documents in place before your trip to ensure a smooth production free of immigration worries.

Category: Thailand Law